During my last term as Chief I was privileged to witness this event. In August 1996 we received a radio call from one of our fellow firefighters who had returned home and found heavy smoke coming from his house.

As we responded from Station 1, I had a sinking feeling about the probable outcome as we were 12 miles away and due to the time of day, I didn't think any of our other volunteers were near Station 2, which was three miles from the scene. Assistant Chief William Merrell lived directly next door to Station 2 but was suffering from brain cancer and had recently lost his sight as a result of the disease. Both of Asst. Chief Merrell's sons and all three daughters were also firefighters as well as two son-in-laws, but I didn't think any of them were near the area. Suddenly over the radio I heard, "Station 2 responding with Engine 2."

The voice sounded suspiciously like Asst. Chief Merrell's voice, but I knew this couldn't be. A few minutes later I heard the same voice come over the radio, "Engine 2 on the scene reporting heavy smoke and flames". Again I thought it was Asst. Chief Merrell's voice. Arriving on the scene a few minutes later I stood in utter disbelief as I in fact saw him standing calmly at the pump panel of Engine 2. A large lump arose in my throat as I was informed by other firefighters that he had in fact driven Engine 2 the three miles down that country blacktop road with his youngest daughter Becky being his eyes! Then borne by years of experience he had set up the pumper, changing lines and monitoring everything totally by sound and feel!

A few minutes later as more and more firefighters arrived, he allowed himself to be taken home totally exhausted. Despite all of our efforts the structure was too involved and could not be saved. Asst. Chief Merrell never answered another call after that day. I will always remember the total love and dedication shown that day for his fellow firefighters, friends and neighbors. A few months later we received the sad privilege of giving him his last and final ride aboard "his Engine 2" as he finally lost his battle with cancer.

(This story is dedicated to the memory of Assistant Chief William C. (Carroll) Merrell, a member of Paris Landing Vol. Fire Dept. from 1986-1996, and all of his family members who continue to serve in their respective departments.)

Reggie Coles
Chief
Paris Landing Volunteer Fire Dept.
Buchanan, TN